Learning, Leaving and Linking: Tapping the training, careers and networks of knowledge workers for developing countries

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Abstract

The present paper, based on a survey analysis of 10,000 scientists and their collaborators explores research mobility and collaboration between developing countries and between developing countries and the north. We focus in particular on research training, research networks, collaboratve arrangements and options for future move. Our finding is that India and China are indeed becoming important anchors for south south development. However, our findings also show that the countries of the north are still key anchor points. While we concur that a spoke and hub model for development in the south, as proposed by Osma (2008) Our warning is that the hubs must remain connected to the north for some time yet. Finally, we argue that while it is important to build scientific capacity at home ( see for example Hassan, 2008) policy options should pursue a dual strategy of promoting international mobility and building a community of science at home.